What To Know
- The V-Strom, on the other hand, has a lower seat height and a more touring-oriented suspension setup, making it more suitable for long-distance riding on paved roads.
- The Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom and the Kawasaki Versys are both excellent adventure touring motorcycles that offer a blend of on-road comfort, off-road capability, and affordability.
- The V-Strom is the better choice for riders who prioritize on-road comfort and long-distance touring, while the Versys is the better choice for riders who need more off-road capability and features.
The adventure touring segment is booming, and two of the most popular contenders are the Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom and the Kawasaki Versys. Both motorcycles offer a blend of on-road comfort, off-road capability, and affordability. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom against the Kawasaki Versys to determine which one reigns supreme.
Engine and Performance
The Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom boasts a 645cc V-twin engine that delivers ample torque and a smooth power delivery. Its 67 horsepower and 46 lb-ft of torque offer a balanced performance for both highway cruising and off-road exploration.
The Kawasaki Versys, on the other hand, is powered by a 649cc parallel-twin engine. It produces 69 horsepower and 47 lb-ft of torque, slightly edging out the V-Strom in both power and torque. The Versys’ engine is known for its smooth and responsive character.
Handling and Suspension
The Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom features a lightweight aluminum frame and a telescopic front fork with 6.3 inches of travel. The rear suspension is a single shock with 6.3 inches of travel. This setup provides a comfortable and stable ride on both paved and unpaved roads.
The Kawasaki Versys also has an aluminum frame, but it uses a longer-travel suspension system. The front fork offers 6.7 inches of travel, while the rear shock has 6.4 inches of travel. This gives the Versys an advantage in off-road situations, as it can absorb more bumps and obstacles.
Off-Road Capabilities
Both the Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom and the Kawasaki Versys are capable of handling light off-road terrain. However, the Versys has a slight edge due to its longer-travel suspension and a more upright riding position, which provides better visibility and control.
The V-Strom, on the other hand, has a lower seat height and a more touring-oriented suspension setup, making it more suitable for long-distance riding on paved roads.
On-Road Comfort
The Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom excels in on-road comfort. Its plush seat, upright riding position, and smooth engine make it a comfortable companion for long rides. The windscreen also provides excellent wind protection.
The Kawasaki Versys offers a similar level of comfort, but its seat is slightly firmer. The Versys also has a slightly more aggressive riding position, which may be less comfortable for some riders.
Features and Technology
The Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom comes standard with a basic instrument cluster that includes a speedometer, tachometer, and fuel gauge. It also has a USB charging port and optional ABS brakes.
The Kawasaki Versys offers a more comprehensive instrument cluster that includes a digital speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and gear indicator. It also comes with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing riders to connect their smartphones for navigation and other features.
Price and Value
The Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom has a starting price of around $8,500, while the Kawasaki Versys starts at around $9,000. Both motorcycles offer excellent value for money, considering their features and capabilities.
Summary: The Verdict
The Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom and the Kawasaki Versys are both excellent adventure touring motorcycles that offer a blend of on-road comfort, off-road capability, and affordability. The V-Strom is the better choice for riders who prioritize on-road comfort and long-distance touring, while the Versys is the better choice for riders who need more off-road capability and features. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual riding style and preferences.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which motorcycle has more power?
A: The Kawasaki Versys has slightly more power than the Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom.
Q: Which motorcycle has better off-road capabilities?
A: The Kawasaki Versys has better off-road capabilities due to its longer-travel suspension and more upright riding position.
Q: Which motorcycle is more comfortable for long rides?
A: The Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom is more comfortable for long rides due to its plush seat and upright riding position.
Q: Which motorcycle has more features and technology?
A: The Kawasaki Versys has more features and technology, including Bluetooth connectivity and a more comprehensive instrument cluster.
Q: Which motorcycle is more affordable?
A: The Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom is slightly more affordable than the Kawasaki Versys.